Introduction to Social WorkLibrary Assignment: Exploration of the Field of Child Welfare
For this library assignment, you will explore the field of Child Welfare, a core area of social work practice focused on protecting children and strengthening families. In a 3-page paper, respond to the following questions to demonstrate your understanding of this field, its social challenges, systems, and services.
What are the social problems that the field of Child Welfare addresses?Discuss the main issues this field confronts, such as child abuse and neglect, family instability, poverty, racial disparities, and challenges within the foster care system.
What are the social systems that a social worker must deal with while working with clients within the field of Child Welfare?Describe the systems and institutions child welfare social workers interact with — including families, schools, healthcare providers, courts, and community organizations.
Briefly trace the historical development of services within the field of Child Welfare.Summarize key milestones in the development of child welfare services in the United States, from early private charities to modern public systems and federal legislation.
List 3–5 social work agencies in New York City that provide Child Welfare services.Identify and briefly describe agencies such as the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), the Children’s Aid Society, Graham Windham, Safe Horizon, or SCO Family of Services.
Additional Requirements
Use APA (7th edition) format for citations and references.
Include at least 2 professional journals and 3 books related to Child Welfare.
Use academic sources such as textbooks, journal articles, and reputable organizations’ websites.
The paper should be three double-spaced pages, excluding the reference list.
ReferencesCarlton-LaNey, I. (2019). Child Welfare and Family Services: Policies and Practice. Pearson.Crosson-Tower, C. (2021). Exploring Child Welfare: A Practice Perspective (8th ed.). Pearson.Mallon, G. P., & Hess, P. M. (2005). Child Welfare for the Twenty-First Century. Columbia University Press.Lindsey, D., & Shlonsky, A. (2008). Child welfare research: Advances for practice and policy. Children and Youth Services Review, 30(11), 1299–1301.Dettlaff, A. J., Weber, K., Pendleton, M., Boyd, R., & Bettencourt, B. (2020). Disentangling substantiation: The influence of race, income, and risk. Child Abuse & Neglect, 108, 104686.
